Gender Disparities in Bicycling: Small Steps to Close a Big Gap

It isn’t news that there are gender disparities among people who bike. Reports estimate that women make up between 25-30% of bike commuters, and there’s even less data on trans, femme, and non-binary riders. Data from local advocacy organizations indicates that gender and race disparities persist in bike activism as well.

Throughout the month women/trans/femme leaders have led family-friendly rides, meet-ups, bike share events and more. It’s a small but important step in changing the perception of what using a bike is all about.

The Urbanist has teamed up with Cascade Bicycle Club and Seattle Neighborhood Greenways to host a final celebration of women and biking to conclude bike month. Join the Womxn’s Downtown Seattle Happy Hour–there’s an advocate in all of us! On Thursday, May 31, from 5 to 7pm at Elephant & Castle (1415 5th Ave.). This event was designed as a space for women, trans, femme and non-binary-identified people. Cis-gendered male friends, we’ll catch you at the next event!

While this event concludes another year of Bike Month activities, efforts for making biking a more inclusive and accessible option for women must continue. If you have ideas or want to get involved, check out resources below: